After a flat third quarter, U.S. and Canadian Natural Gas Class 8 truck retail sales rose 9 percent year-to-date through November, according to ACT Research.
“Despite the uncertainty spurred by the current climate of changing environmental winds and low oil prices, the reading indicates continued interest in natural gas as a transportation fuel in the US Class 8 market,” says Kenny Vieth, senior partner and general manager, ACT Research. “Based on news released in the popular press, natural gas vehicle purchases continued to be dominated by refuse fleets through year-to-date November, as well as transit and school bus operators.”
Meanwhile, electric vehicle technology continues to make strides as it further penetrates the various commercial vehicle classifications, with Class 8 on the docket. “All viable commercial vehicle power alternatives must now be considered to accurately measure potential cost savings for fleets and overall emissions as we look to the future,” Vieth says.
In mid-August, ACT Research announced a new alternative fuels calculator, now giving users the opportunity to compare cost per mile for diesel, electric, hydrogen fuel cell, gasoline, propane and natural gas-powered vehicles. The enhanced calculator was designed for fleet managers to easily compare any of the above-mentioned fuels, using parameters specific to their particular application, geography, contracted fuel rates and financing and maintenance preferences. ACT is a neutral participant in the CV industry, as is the truck fuel calculator.
ACT Research also announced it has initiated an “Electrification Study” for GVW Classes 4-8. New members are encouraged to join the study. For more information on this project, please CLICK HERE.
